CVE-2000-0616 in MPE-iX
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in HP TurboIMAGE DBUTIL allows local users to gain additional privileges via DBUTIL.PUB.SYS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0616 resides within HP TurboIMAGE database management system and specifically targets the DBUTIL utility component. This flaw represents a privilege escalation vulnerability that enables local attackers to elevate their system access rights through manipulation of the DBUTIL.PUB.SYS file. The vulnerability stems from inadequate access controls and improper privilege management within the database utility framework, creating an exploitable condition that undermines the system's security model.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of the DBUTIL.PUB.SYS system file which serves as a critical interface for database utility operations. When local users can access or modify this specific system component, they gain the ability to execute commands with elevated privileges typically restricted to system administrators. The flaw operates at the system call level where insufficient validation allows unauthorized modifications to privileged system resources. This represents a classic case of insufficient privilege checking as classified under CWE-276, where the system fails to properly enforce access controls for critical system components.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to database security and system integrity. Local users who can exploit this condition can potentially access sensitive data, modify database structures, or even compromise the entire database system. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities. Attackers can leverage this weakness to establish persistent access or conduct data exfiltration operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal prerequisites and can be exploited by users who already have basic system access, making it a preferred target for both internal and external threat actors.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is primarily limited to systems running HP TurboIMAGE with the affected DBUTIL component and local user access. However, the implications are severe as it allows attackers to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and operate with elevated privileges. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes the exploitation of legitimate credentials and system access to escalate privileges. Organizations should implement comprehensive access control measures, including mandatory access controls and privilege separation, to prevent unauthorized modification of system files. Regular security audits and monitoring of system file integrity can help detect unauthorized modifications to critical system components like DBUTIL.PUB.SYS. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege and restricting local user access to sensitive system utilities can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. System administrators should also ensure that all HP TurboIMAGE installations are updated with the latest security patches and that proper file permissions are enforced to prevent unauthorized access to privileged system components.